Changes in Contemporary Form in Gangneung City through Cadastral Data Analysis and Application of the Spatial Politics Concept

This study aimed to reveal changes in urban forms by analyzing the modern and contemporary development history of Gangneung City, one of the major cities in the Yeongdong county of Gangwon-do, South Korea; it has been a central city in the Yeongdong area since the Japanese colonial period. The study’s scope and analysis focused on a space centered in the old downtown area of Gangneung City. The time span under review was divided into three periods in terms of spatial politics. The original cadastral map, a contemporary cadastral map, and photographic data were analyzed, including the use of Geographic Information System (GIS) Programs, for characteristics corresponding to each period. A field investigation and interviews with residents were also conducted. The results confirmed changes in the spatial environment centered on roads, blocks, plots, and architecture that have historical significance. In particular, the study verified the characteristics of the physical environment of the original downtown area centered on Yonggang-dong, Myeongju-dong, and Seongnae-dong and changes in the form of Lake Gyeongpo. Finally, the study presents the implications of these changes by comprehensively summarizing the history of the modern and contemporary development of Gangneung City through changes in the surrounding area.